Gunman Enters Church, Pastor Arrested For Felony Theft and More
This week's crime breakdown
CRIMES AGAINST PERSONS
Suspect Opens Fire in Bellefontaine Neighbors Church
A man opened fire at the Grace New Covenant Church in Bellefontaine Neighbors, Missouri, on Sunday afternoon. The shooter entered through a rear door and fired several shots at a man working security. The incident occurred during a service held by the Brothers and Sisters in Christ Fellowship Church, which rents the space from Grace New Covenant Church. Fortunately, no one was physically injured. The shooter, who is believed to be an extended family member of the victim, fled the scene with his family. Police are actively investigating and seeking any information from the public.
I wrote a newsletter on this incident that you can read over here.
Darien Church Asks Police to Remove Man
Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church in Darien, Illinois, requested police assistance to remove a 50-year-old man from their premises. The man, a resident of Clarendon Hills, was causing a disturbance during a church service. Police responded and resolved the situation without incident. No charges were filed, and the church resumed normal activities shortly after.
I don’t know what the disturbance was about, but it does seem there is an increase in church disturbances since October 7th. You and your team should be training on how you would remove a disrupter from your service.
Police Officer Hit by Car While Responding to Gun Call at Boston Church
Two suspects were arrested, and three firearms seized after a Boston police officer was struck by a fleeing vehicle while responding to a report of an armed person outside St. Matthew’s Church. The officer sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The incident involved a group of four individuals, with two suspects still at large. The investigation is ongoing.
I have my own injuries that will last a lifetime from going to calls like this. It is a good reminder to keep your head constantly moving while dealing with an unfolding, dynamic incident at your church. In this case, you have 4 people with guns confronting each other in front of a church. That is going to unfold quickly with responding police and you all trying to deal with the situation. It is best to lock your doors, protect the people inside, and let the aggressors fight with each other outside. Keep people away from walls and move them into the most interior area of your church. The more walls between you and them the better. Lastly, look at my note above about gang members and drug dealers coming to church. They do come to church and everyone that wants them dead knows where they are at 0900 hours on Sunday.
Man Accused of Vandalizing Kingston Church Found with Ammunition
A man from Plymouth, Massachusetts, was arrested for vandalizing the First Parish Church in Kingston. Police discovered ammunition and writings on mass shootings in his car. The suspect, Jonathan White, faces multiple charges, including malicious destruction of property. Authorities are investigating the potential threat and motive behind the incident.
If I had a church in this area, I would be keeping tabs on this man. I wrote an article on the need for an intelligence officer at your church. You need it because people like this are roaming the Earth. If he has writings about mass shootings and is vandalizing a church, then you have to assume he is thinking about doing an active shooter event. Get his photo and pass it around to everyone on the safety ministry as well as all other volunteers and employees. Post it up for all volunteers and employees to see and leave it up forever.
St. Charles Man Threatens Church Over Denied Performance
A St. Charles man was charged with making terroristic threats after allegedly threatening to shoot up a local church that refused to let him perform music. The incident occurred at St. Joseph Catholic Church, where the suspect expressed anger at being denied a chance to play. Police intervened after being alerted to the threat, and the man was taken into custody without incident. The church has since increased security measures to ensure the safety of its congregation.
If someone says they are going to shoot up your church, you absolutely need to take that threat seriously. People will often find ways to dismiss behavior like this by saying, “He really wouldn’t do that.” They absolutely would. After the arrest, you will need to get a restraining order against the man so that he cannot come to your church anymore. You can try and rehome him to a new church with a memorandum of understanding on his behavior, but that church would need to be willing to take him. It will be convoluted.
SEX CRIMES
Felon-Turned-Pastor Charged with Sexual Battery of Teen Girl
Felipe Martinez, a former felon who became a pastor, has been charged with sexual battery involving a teenage girl. Martinez, known for his work at a Texas church, faces serious allegations that have shocked the community. Authorities are conducting an ongoing investigation to determine the extent of the alleged misconduct. Martinez had a previous criminal record before turning to pastoral work.
OK, a concurrent theme here is for your church to do a solid background check. Here, you would find out he is a felon. People change, I get that. But if you have a former felon wanting to be a pastor, that means they will have alone time with children. You’ll have to put in place special policies just for him to make sure he is never alone with children and monitor his behavior. I know people change, but you will have to make some adjustments if you decide to let them into your church and lead you. I’m conflicted, especially when you see the story of Saul. However, I’ve seen so much that could’ve been prevented I feel it necessary for me to give you some advice on how to best move forward.
Longtime NJ Pastor Charged with Repeated Sexual Assaults
Rev. Stephen E. Sweet, pastor of Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church in River Edge, New Jersey, has been charged with 21 crimes, including 18 sex offenses involving a teenager. The alleged assaults occurred over several years in River Edge, Paramus, and Ridgewood. Sweet, who was ordained in 1997, is accused of multiple counts of aggravated sexual assault, sexual assault, endangering the welfare of a child, and criminal sexual contact. He was arrested and is currently held at Bergen County Jail awaiting a court hearing.
Now is a good time to read my article on detecting sexual abuse in a church. There is way too many cases like this each week. To be honest, it is just behind property crime as being the most prolific crime in church each week.
Man Cited for Public Indecency at Ohio Church
A man was cited for public indecency in the parking lot of St. Peter’s Church in Chillicothe, Ohio. Witnesses reported seeing the man defecating and wiping himself on Wednesday morning. Authorities identified the suspect as Keith Snyder, who matched the description provided. Snyder denied the act but was issued a summons for public indecency and released with a court date set for July 22, 2024.
This happens way too frequently with the homeless population. If your church gives aid at the church for the homeless, expect an increase in crime to go with your efforts. It doesn’t mean don’t help them… it means that you should be aware and take measures to protect the surrounding community and your congregants. Why would a man defecate in a church parking lot? Because of mental illness, drug use or both. Mentally ill and addicts don’t think like rational people.
Ex-School District Janitor Charged with Molestation During Church Trips
A former school district janitor in the South Bay area has been charged with molesting teenagers during church trips. The suspect allegedly committed the crimes at his residence, targeting teenagers involved in the church activities. Authorities are investigating the extent of the allegations and urge any additional victims to come forward. The suspect faces multiple charges related to the incidents.
Sexual predators will target a church for new victims. Churches are targeted for our forgiving nature (churches tend to bury and not report sexual assaults), and our lack of background checks and monitoring of adult interactions with children. WE ARE NOT DOING A GOOD JOB AS A WHOLE. Seriously, do good background checks and have a good policy in place that protects our children. Lastly, where there are one or two victims, there are 10 fold. Be transparent with the police and start your own investigation.
Long Island Church Leader Charged with Sexual Misconduct
A church leader from Hempstead, Long Island, has been charged with multiple counts of sexual misconduct involving a minor. The alleged incidents began when the victim was 12 years old. Authorities are urging anyone with additional information to assist in the ongoing investigation.
Go up and read that article on finding sexual predators at church. I wish this church had.
MBI Investigating Sexual Abuse Allegation Tied to Broadmoor Baptist Church
The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation (MBI) is looking into an allegation of sexual abuse connected to Broadmoor Baptist Church in Madison, Mississippi. This follows an earlier investigation by Guidepost Solutions into past abuse allegations at the church.
ARSON
Golf Carts Catch Fire at Alabama Church During Service
On July 14, during the 11 a.m. service at First Baptist Church Montgomery in Alabama, a fire broke out involving the church's golf carts. The fire was quickly contained by Montgomery firefighters, and no injuries were reported. The incident occurred while the church was celebrating the 20th anniversary of its main sanctuary, which had previously been restored after an arson attack in 2021.
PROPERTY CRIME
Pastor Arrested for Felony Theft from Leesville Church
Dock Jack Osteen III, a former pastor of First Assembly of God Church in Leesville, Louisiana, was arrested in Florida for allegedly stealing funds from the church. The Louisiana State Police's Bureau of Investigations in Alexandria initiated the investigation, which led to Osteen's arrest by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office on July 12. He is accused of theft amounting to less than $25,000 and will be extradited to Vernon Parish for further proceedings.
I’ve written articles that will help you prevent most crime at your churches. In this case, I have an article on protecting church funds here. I know you should be able to trust your pastor. You should always trust, but you need to verify. Everyone is tempted by the devil.
Phony Priest Linked to Nationwide Church Thefts Busted in NYC
Malin Rostas, a 45-year-old conman, was arrested for posing as a priest to steal $900 from American Martyrs RC Church in Queens, New York. Rostas, known for his nationwide church thefts, used the same method to steal thousands of dollars across multiple states. He was previously arrested in California for a similar crime and extradited to New York to face charges. Authorities commend the NYPD for their diligence in apprehending Rostas.
Again, I need to reiterate the need for background checks that go beyond just a computer check. You need to check references and then dig deeper. Even if it is your pastor. Trust but verify.
Church in Herndon Broken Into Twice; Police Seek Culprits
Herndon Police are investigating two break-ins at a local church within a short span. The incidents occurred at an unnamed church in Herndon, Virginia, where nothing of significant value was reported stolen. Authorities have released photos of the suspects and are seeking public assistance in identifying them. The police urge anyone with information to come forward to help resolve the case.
Each week I remind you that your church needs a 4k video system and a burglar/fire alarm. This is your weekly reminder.
Relic Stolen from Cathedral of the Madeleine in Salt Lake City
A relic of Saint Mary Magdalene was stolen from the Cathedral of the Madeleine in Salt Lake City, Utah, on the morning of July 10. The theft was discovered around 7 a.m. by cathedral staff who found the broken reliquary on the floor. The Diocese of Salt Lake City is working with local police to recover the relic and has offered a $1,000 reward for information leading to its return.
Alabama Church Employee Embezzles $300,000 for TikTok Gifts
Kristen Battocletti, a former administrative assistant at St. Francis of Assisi University Parish in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, has pleaded guilty to wire fraud for stealing $300,000 from the church. She used the church's Mastercard to purchase TikTok Coins and cover personal expenses, making over 429 transactions. Battocletti admitted to stealing at least $70,000 per month between June and August 2023. She has agreed to pay nearly $300,000 in restitution.
INTERNATIONAL STORIES
Teen Detained in Adygea for Alleged Church Attack Plot
An 18-year-old was detained by Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) for allegedly planning a terrorist attack on an Orthodox church in Maykop, Adygea. The suspect, a Central Asian national, reportedly conducted reconnaissance and assembled incendiary devices with the intent to attack the church and harm its clergy and guards. The FSB found materials related to a terrorist organization and components for the planned attack. The investigation is ongoing.
These events are unfolding around the world rapidly. Most suspects are Tajik. Currently, there are hundreds of Tajiks in the U.S. that were set free by ICE. The attacks that you see in Russia and other countries should be studied as these will be the same type of attacks you will see here in the US.
Man Shot Dead Before Mass Inside Church in Colombia
On July 15, a man was fatally shot inside Saint John Paul II Church in Cali, Colombia, just before a scheduled Mass. The assailant, a woman, fired multiple shots, also injuring another congregant. The victim, Erasmo Trujillo, was a regular churchgoer. Authorities believe the motive may be related to Trujillo's alleged past involvement with a drug trafficking gang. The incident has shocked the local community, prompting calls for increased security and respect for the sanctity of religious spaces.
I see a lot of criminals going to church on Sunday. I’d even see rival gangs going to the same church at the same time. If you have drug dealers and gang members going to your church, you will have an issue at some point. Everyone that wants them dead knows where they will be on Sunday at 9 AM.
Parisian Catholic Church Vandalized with Islamic Threats
Notre-Dame du Travail in Paris was vandalized with explicit Islamist graffiti and acts of violence on July 14. The desecration included threats, smashed property, and a statue of the Virgin Mary stabbed in the throat. Parishioners discovered the damage the next day. The church, located in a working-class district, has experienced similar incidents previously. The parish is seeking funds for a surveillance system to prevent future attacks.
Are you seeing a trend yet? Islamists were told by ISIS to attack us and the Jews. We aren’t, as a whole, taking this threat seriously. Look at what is happening to churches around the world. The bible says we will be persecuted for our beliefs, they’ve told us they’re coming after us, and there are a whole bunch of dangerous people that invaded our country that want to hurt us. It’s coming.
Firstly, thank you for this on-going invaluable information that spans our nation. Where were you when I ran security for years at my church? 😂 I tried desperately to obtain information to help us prepare each week. It was hard. You are providing information that people should be using constantly to determine if they need to increase or make changes to security based on events near them. I used an arbitrary 50 mile “perimeter” for things that could possibly effect our location. THANK YOU
Secondly, I will humbly take mild umbrage with the advice on the article “Felon-Turned-Pastor Charged with Sexual Battery on Teen Girl.” I do not believe “special” arrangements are needed for this pastor, because I believe that NO pastor should be alone with a teenage girl, even for so-called sensitive or embarrassing issues. The verse at 1 Thessalonians 5:22 says, “Abstain from all APPEARANCE of evil. (emphasis added)” The KJV is the only correctly stated version (IMHO).
• The NIV says, “Reject every kind of evil.”
• NKJV says, “Abstain from every kind of evil.”
• The NLT says, “Stay away from every kind of evil.”
• NASB says, “Abstain from every kind of evil.”
The emphasis of the KJV to give no APPEARANCE of evil is so important. Don’t put your pastor(s) in a position that it could APPEAR that something could be amiss. All it takes is one simple accusation from a woman, especially a teenager, to ruin a career. Don’t create a he-said-she-said scenario.
Non Disclosure Agreements (NDA) should be required for anyone assisting the pastor with counseling. And it’s better yet to have a woman as the assistant, and security cameras recording the full event.
I’m old and this is based on experience and first hand observations of how easily “alone time” turns ugly. “No private meetings between a male and a female” should be the rule, not the exception.
Thanks again for your dedication to providing information that’s not easily accessible by the common security team.
ABC
Mr. Graves,
Thanks for the weekly 'hit list' of church issues. Us understanding what is happening elsewhere makes us more aware of what we need to be on the lookout for. My prayers are with you,
Randy